Despite decades of public policies and support programs, Canada has developed relatively few new mines and processing facilities for critical and strategic minerals. Should we rethink our investment, development and risk-sharing models to accelerate the development of these essential resources? This panel will bring together representatives from industry, investors, market specialists and business organizations to discuss more structured approaches, including strategic partnerships, new financing models and a more strategic use of public funds alongside private capital. The discussion will aim to identify the priorities and conditions needed to develop strong critical minerals value chains, building in particular on the momentum and initiatives led by Québec in this field, and ultimately strengthening Canada’s economic independence.
Back to program
![]()
![]()
Mines
Critical Minerals: Do We Need to Rethink Investment and Development Models?
Wednesday, November 18, 2026
9 a.m.
Welcome Address
9:05 a.m.
Market and Investor Perspective
Conference details
It would be extremely difficult to stimulate growth in the mining and metals sector without taking into account its existing capital structure. Rather than simply distributing public funds, regulators should focus on reducing perceived risk and significantly lowering the cost of capital. For companies that are not yet generating cash flow, this mainly concerns the cost of equity; for recycling and refining companies, it involves bridge-financing solutions to cover mandatory qualification periods. In all cases, timing is critical.